Coors breaks Molson tie

Published on October 22, 1996.

GOLDEN, Colo. -- Adolph Coors Co. said an arbitration panel in Toronto has ruled that Molson Breweries relinquished its rights to brew and distribute Coors beer in 1993 when U.S. competitor Miller Brewing Co. purchased a 20% interest in Molson. That purchase was a breach of Molson's licensing agreement with Coors, the panel ruled. A subsequent panel will determine if Coors is entitled to monetary damages.

Coors said it is reviewing its options regarding marketing in Canada, including the possibility of a new arrangement with Molson.